Summary
Polish authorities arrested a Russian archaeologist, Alexander Butyagin, who works at the Hermitage Museum in Russia. Ukraine accuses him of illegal excavations in Crimea that caused significant damage. Poland is holding him as Ukraine seeks his extradition.
Key Facts
- Alexander Butyagin is a Russian archaeologist from the Hermitage Museum in St Petersburg.
- He is wanted by Ukraine for illegal excavations in Crimea.
- The excavations reportedly damaged the ancient city of Myrmekion, with estimated damages of $4.77 million.
- Poland detained Butyagin on December 4 and he is in custody while extradition proceedings occur.
- Russia, which annexed Crimea in 2014, condemned the arrest and is providing consular support.
- Myrmekion is an ancient Greek colony located in today's Crimea.
- Poland's decision allows Butyagin to be held for 40 days as the legal process unfolds.
